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Bence-Jones Immunofixation

The Microgel /INTERLAB G26 Immunofixation Electrophoresis Kit for the detection of Bence-Jones proteins (IFE BJ), thanks to the Easy Mask, provides a semi-automated method for the detection and identification of suspected Bence-Jones proteins. The first 8 IFE BJ samples are completed within 40 minutes subsequent groups every 15 minutes.
Microgel and Interlab G26 work by a continuous loading mode.
No sample concentration!
1. Pipette the specimens into the sample wells
2. Place gels into the holder
3. Start the instrument
4. WALK AWAY!

The immunoglobulin molecule is a tetramer containing two heavy chains that define the class (IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD, and IgE) and two light chains, called kappa and lambda respectively. Each immunoglobulin contains a pair of light chains of the same type, either kappa or lambda. Immunoglobulins are synthesized and released in the bloodstream by plasma cells.
Multiple myeloma results from neoplastic proliferation of a single plasma cell clone secreting abnormal amounts of antibody. Mutations in the immunoglobulin genes may result in myeloma cells producing:
· light chains only, a condition called Bence Jones myeloma
· heavy chains only
· molecular fragments of immunoglobulins
The overproduction of this monoclonal protein, present in a variety of shapes and sizes, is common to multiple myeloma and AL amyloidosis. Immunoglobulin free light chains, or Bence Jones proteins, pass from the serum into the urine and are therefore considered the tumor marker for multiple myeloma. Thus, their detection in urine provides valuable information for the initial diagnosis and follow-up. Tests for the screening and the investigation of multiple myeloma also include electrophoretic methods with high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of free light chains.
Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) is a laboratory method used to define the biochemical identity and homogeneity of immunoglobulins or light chains, when suspected monoclonal components are detected in protein electrophoretic patterns of biological fluids. IFE Bence Jones method combines the resolution of protein fractions by electrophoresis with the specific recognition of free light chains using antibodies raised against heavy chains of human immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, and IgA) and their light chains, kappa and lambda, either bound or free. The binding between the specific antibody and the monoclonal protein, namely the complete immunoglobulin and/or bound and free light chains, results in the formation of a band of precipitate in the corresponding lane that identify the type of immunoglobulin, either heavy chain and/or light chain. The use of Acid Violet, a very sensitive stain for proteins, provides improved quality of the electrophoretic results, for a better visual inspection of the patterns.

Kit Content

Gel Plates	10
Blotting Paper A	30
Blotting Paper L	10
Blotting Paper G	10
Buffered Sponges	20
Acid Violet Stain	1
Applicator Washing Solution	1
Washing Solution 1 for Immunofixation	1
Washing Solution 2 for Immunofixation	1
Immunofixation Diluent	1
Disposable Sample Plates	10

Regents preparation

Reagents are ready to use, only the Stain and the Washing Solution for Immunofixation have to be reconstituted: Reconstitute Stain with 900 ml of distilled water; Dilute 20 ml of Washing Solution 1 for Immunofixation plus 20 ml of Washing Solution 2 for Immunofixation to a final volume of 1L with distilled water.

Samples preparation

Diluted serum sample: Reference lane diluted 1/3 - Pentavalent lane diluted 1/6. Concentrated urines to a final total protein value of about 5 g/L

Sample storage and stability

Serum:	1 week at 2 to 8°C, 1 month at –20°C
Urine:	1 week at 2 to 8°C, and 1 month at –20°C

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